Scientists have found that frequent and unjustified use of antibiotics may be associated with an increase in anxiety states and mood disorders. This is reported by Molecular Psychiatry.
In experiments on laboratory mice, specialists observed that the intake of antibiotics sharply alters the balance of gut microbiota and leads to a decrease in acetylcholine levels—a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in regulating emotional responses. These changes were accompanied by the emergence of anxious behavior and indicated disruptions in the 'gut-brain' axis.
Similar patterns were identified in humans. Participants who had recently undergone a course of antibiotic therapy exhibited more pronounced signs of anxiety, as well as lower levels of acetylcholine in the blood and gut compared to those who had not taken the medications. According to researchers, bacteria of the Bacteroides genus may play a significant role in this process: a decrease in their numbers coincided with a deterioration in psycho-emotional state.
At the same time, the authors emphasize that the findings do not imply a rejection of antibiotics. It is about the necessity of cautious and justified use, as aggressive or uncontrolled application may pose additional risks to mental health.
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